Yeah, you messed up but

2 Chronicles 19:1-3

19:1 When Jehoshaphat king of Judah returned safely to his palace in Jerusalem, 2 Jehu the seer, the son of Hanani, went out to meet him and said to the king, "Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD? Because of this, the wrath of the LORD is upon you. 3 There is, however, some good in you, for you have rid the land of the Asherah poles and have set your heart on seeking God."

Yeah, you messed up ... But there are good things about you! Jehoshaphat was a pretty good king, like his father, Asa. However even those of us who are "pretty good", sometimes Mess up ... Make bad judgments ... Don't get it right sometimes! (Are you listening?) Well, when you acquaint yourself with Jehoshaphat, you'll find that was indeed the case. I believe that when your heart is in the right place, even if there are moments of poor judgment, misplaced steps, and unchanneled energy,  the purpose will match the plan in the end, in other words although you messed up, there's still good in you, and God can still use you to His glory! A critical factor in leadership is that as a leader you have to recognize the good and good intentions of people ... Your followers are followers for a reason: they have entrusted You to lead them because who you are (check out John Maxwell's 5 P's of leadership). It is a vital function of leadership to find and extract the good in others, even when they "mess up"! Someone has said "failure doesn't have to be final!" Many people in our organizations (church, business, Home) accomplish tasks and complete assignments that may fall below your standards, but that does not mean they (people, church members, children, etc) are sub-standard! The function of a leader among other things is that of a teacher. Teachers teach because they know what they are teaching is valuable, but they also know that some of life's most valuable lessons are gained when students try and fail, only to try again and succeed beyond measure! In Jehoshaphat’s case, he failed by joining forces with a wicked King, but God forgave him and he went on to truly demonstrate where his heart was, and in humility and bravery, cried out to the Lord and gave us perhaps the best example of how to deal with adversity ... "The battle is not yours, but God's" (2Chron. 20:15). Remember, God is The Best Leader ... Ever, and He saw beyond the faults and failures of Jehoshaphat and gave him another chance! Should we do any less?

You Have the CLUE!

Beauty out of the darkness!

Sometimes it has to be dark in order to see the beauty!

The other night I became one of the few people to see a rare sight! I saw a Luna Moth. Now come on, when's the last time you saw a Luna Moth?! I've lived for almost 5 decades (depending on who you ask or when you're reading this) and I had never seen one - until that night! It seemed to want to come thru my front door window trying as moths do, to get to the light. At first it was terrifying (well, you know ... I'm really a tough guy - lol) because I thought it was a small bird or bat. But wait, birds don't fly at night, and bats try to avoid the light! I turned the porch light off to keep it and other bugs away, but it was too late – I was intrigued. What is that thing?!  So I did what we all do when we don't know or understand something nowadays ... I googled it! Big green moth  "click". There it was surprisingly beautiful: actias lunas. Wow! Thanks Wikipedia! The Luna Moth only comes out at night; its beauty is rarely seen; certain areas of the country, etc ... However, I also found out that it's been used for a number of years in popular culture from things like rock songs to sleeping pill commercials. Who knew? Not me! Well, I said "I" never saw one. Let's get a CLUE ...

We all have dark days ... Weeks, months, etc. We wonder and grapple with the "why" of these dark days and we know inside our hearts that we must have them from time to time. We just don't like them to be too frequent. However frequent or infrequent they may be, we do experience them: break-ups, financial setbacks, family drama, sickness, confusion, etc. The list goes on. But sometimes when it's dark on the outside and your light is shining on the inside, something beautiful will try to get in! It may appear as frightening at first because you've never seen it before. But when you stop and examine it you see its usefulness. I realized that even in the midst of the darkest night God has still designed and provided beauty! This beauty is of course, attracted to our light. Its purpose is to remind us that even when dark, our lights must still shine; and when they shine, beautiful things can still be seen no matter the darkness, difficulty, or dreariness. Open your heart, no matter how dark the night, God will give you something to see that may surprise and even terrify you at first, but know that it is His will to keep you out of the darkness if you keep the light inside shining bright … it attracts beauty!

You have the CLUE!

Kisser, Keeper, or just plain Desperate?

Alright ... I'm gonna be honest and tell on myself ... On Sunday nights, after a long day in class and the pulpit, I veg out on the couch and watch "Mindless TV"! Usually the TV is watching me (LOL). However I have managed to watch a few early episodes of "Desparate Housewives" ... Yeah, I know, but you've got your show too, now dont't ya! I have noticed that each character has some charater flaws and traits that are worth mentioning.

Let's refresh the characters on the Show …  First there is the fickle, people pleaser, and can’t seem to keep a man. Next the ever so controlling, insecure,  perfectionist. Then there is the self centered, materialistic,  prima-donna. Of course the domineering, corporate ladder climbing, frustrated business woman. (These folk sound like people you know?)

What they all share in common, besides Bridge and Tea parties, is that fact that each week they find themselves in “Desperate” situations where choices are made that have an adverse affect on their lives and the lives of those around them.

The fact that life creates some desperate situations is no surprise … the fact that these situations require solutions is also no surprise … what matters is what we do when we are faced with them ... Are you a Kisser or a Keeper?
Let's get a CLUE...

In the biblical book of Ruth we are introduced to three women who share something in common. A single thread weaves them together in the fact that with the loss of their husbands they are vulnerable, at risk, and susceptible to mistreatment in a male dominated society. Due to this fact, Naomi made a wise decision to return to her place of origin, the land of Judah. This decision became the origin of stress … it made an already stressful situation (the fact that they had lost their husbands) even more so. Now the two maidens were forced to consider leaving their current place of abode and return with Naomi to a place that meant nothing to them (it was Naomi’s home). They were faced with a life changing decision that once made would affect them for the rest of their lives.  What can we learn from these women that will assist us in our Desperate situations? The book of Ruth sets up a classroom environment conducive to learning several lessons … among them are lessons in Leadership and Discipleship.

Let's start with a lesson in Leadership … Naomi was a Leader. A true leader has care and concern for others needs. She knew the plight before them so she directed her daughters to return to their homes. She assured them that God will surely deal kindly with them. She knew that God would grant them to find “rest” i.e. security. She gave candid and clear-cut information ... she kept it real … didn’t sugar coat it. She knew that sooner or later they would faint and wain due to thier "human-ness." She said, "Look I am old, I have no more sons, if I did you wouldn’t wait for them!" Our Lord Jesus was candid and clear. Think of the conversations he had with the following:

§  Woman at the well … you’ve had five husbands

§  Rich young man … sell what you have, give to the poor

§  To multitudes … if you love mother/father more than me …

§  To his disciples … they will persecute you

§  To disciples … the way to greatness is service

Like Jesus and his leaders of that day, Leaders today must be candid and clear! Say what you mean and mean it!

Let's take a lesson in Discipleship … Ruth would become a Learner (one who conforms his words, thoughts, and actions to that of his master/leader). One thing a disciple does is commit to new Leadership. She was heard to say" Wherever you go, I will go … lodge, I will lodge". This meant committing to a new lifestyle, new people, new concepts, etc. She willingly committed herself to Naomi's world. Christians are "called out of the world"! Our leader is Jesus ... we are his disciples committed HIs words, thoughts, and actions!

Now the other young lady, Orpah would eventually become a Loser . She Went back to ‘her’ people! Bad move ... there's nothing like God’s People ... Her people couldn’t save her ... Her people had no relationship with the true God. Today, people make the grave mistake of putting ‘their people’ before God i.e. relatives, spouses, children, friends, etc … Orpah put her people over God’s people, they had more influence over her than Naomi did, she was a “friend” of the world! She went back to ‘her’ gods. Today, people make the mistake and forsake God Almighty for false gods: False gods of: money, power, jobs, people worship. You always lose when you turn away from God! She had an opportunity but passed it up. She may have been a good person, but you always lose without God!

Let me conclude by saying that in every walk of life, there are at least two types of people … the "Kissers" like Orpah, and the "Keepers" like Ruth (1:14). It’s the kissers that more often find themselves in “Desperate” situations. The Keepers have committed themselves to the cause and will not let go! They “cleave”.  The “Kissers”, are there for a while, but when the going gets rough and uncertain, they will “kiss” you goodbye in a Desperate minute! Which one are you?

You've been CLUEd!

Listen to your Father ...

On an episode of the iconic “Sanford and son” (The Card Sharps, a 1972 episode), Lamont gets involved in a card game with three shady characters. Fred quickly recognizes that these dudes are about to take advantage of his grown, but somehow childish son! Now Fred, like Lucy of I Love Lucy, had a particular knack for getting into the most humorous and idiotic situations (sitcom), but many times, they were able to come out shining. This time the egg would be on Lamont’s face … if he didn’t heed the voice of his father. Fred tries with comedic acumen to keep Lamont from playing a losing hand … dealt with marked cards, but his antics fail. The hand is played, the other guys win, Lamont is broke i.e. a “Broke Dummy” according to Fred! He should have listened! Well, he didn’t. Now it was time for “Father knows best”! He sends Lamont out on an errand and turns the tables on those “Card Sharps”. You know the “G” in Fred G. Sanford stands for “Gambler” right?! Well, by the time he gets back, Lamont’s “friends” are speeding away with empty pockets and embarrassed feelings! The look on Lamont’s face says it all “Gee, I should have listened to pops!”

Let’s get a CLUE …

Proverbs 1:8a “Listen, my son, to your father's instruction” (NIV)

The book of Proverbs is written to instruct the young (man), the kings, and all leaders. Elements for these can be found throughout the book. The writer was not interested in the status quo but with the receiving of wisdom and in the getting of “understanding”. He knew that the acquiring the “principal thing” would go farther than any degree, fame, or fortune that one could amass in a life time.

The key verse in the book: Proverbs 4:7 “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” (KJV)

In today’s world the father or father figure is an enigma to many, but rest assured that the father is alive and well among us! God’s word declares that the father is to be the central figure in the home, a leader of his family, and a staple in the community. He was to be listened to (Prov. 4:1), He was to correct (Prov. 3:12), He was not to be cursed (Prov. 20:20), and He was to be considered even when the son made friends (Prov. 28:7). We have traveled light years from that standard in some circles, but among God’s people, the father still strives!

You may not know or have an earthly father to share this coming Father’s Day with … perhaps he has been selected to go on ahead of you to enter the rest from his labors. Maybe you have an estranged relationship with him. That’s reality. However, an even greater reality is the relationship you can and hopefully do have with your Heavenly Father. That relationship never ends, not in this life or in the next. Every day with God is Father’s Day because every day he provides, protects, and is present … always. 

What does the Heavenly Father want? He wants what all fathers want … to be listened to! To be taken seriously. To be honored and respected, not because He knows it all, because he’s your Father! Lamont should’ve listened to his father. He would’ve been much happier many of the times … but he often didn’t. We should listen to our heavenly Father. He cares for us. He prepares for us. He is there for us! Now, I don’t think our Father in heaven would ever call us a “Broke Dummy” … but when I think of all the times I didn’t listen to him, I sure felt like one! I’m thankful for my Heavenly Father’s grace, mercy, and longsuffering! Thank God for fathers. Thank God for … God!

You have the CLUE!

Wait a minute ... Say What?

I recently picked up a little hymnal at church; you know the supplemental ones we “make” ourselves from other song books or borrow with credit from others?! Well, some of you know what I mean! LOL. As I casually flipped through the pages, a very old but familiar song caught my attention. Not so much the song, but a phrase from the song. The song was “It’s gonna rain”. I’ve heard sung by church choirs, on the radio, on TV, even preached in sermons. The phrase is “It’s gonna rain, it’s gonna rain, you’d better get ready and bear this in mind …” Wait a minute “bear this in mind”? Who put that in there!? That’s not right! It should be “better send mind”! Right?! I asked a few people, their response was yes “bear this in mind” (however I think they googled itJ). I asked a few more and they like myself said yeah … better ... send mind … (I could visualize the perplexed looks on their faces when they wrote it out). Sure enough though, those are the words “bear this in mind”. Hmmmm. I guess when you think of it, there are several words and phrases that are commonly mispronounced such as:

Acrossed instead of Across

Affidavid instead of Affidavit

Antartic instead of Antarctic

Bidness instead of Business

Blessing in the skies instead of Blessing in disguise

Card shark instead of Cardsharp

Doggy dog world instead of Dog-eat-dog world

And one of my favorites … Forte instead of Fort (look it up J)

So I asked myself, “how did it come to happen that after all these years of hearing and in some cases singing something, did I have it all wrong (or most of it anyway)? Let’s get a CLUE …

One thing that I’ve learned as a leader is that all too often, people will listen to and follow your instructions and directions, not so much because they are correct, but because they believe you to be correct. They believe that you have done your homework; put the necessary think time in; used the best resources at your disposal to come to the heavy conclusions you come to, etc. For the most part I agree that leaders should be given credit for their knowledge, expertise, and competence in their specialty. But it is also up to followers to really do what followers do … follow. I mean, follow the example of the leader. If he or she studies profusely, take the initiative to develop good study habits as well. If the leader is steeped in research and analysis, show your due diligence as well. The leader’s job is to “feed and lead” but it is the follower’s job to take in and digest it properly. Too often however, the followers knowledge base begins and ends with and only with, the dominate thought of the leader and very few times does he seek out for the meaning himself. Like with the song, he just listens, takes in, and assumes that is what it says even if it doesn’t make sense. Do you think “better send mind” makes sense … really? One person commented that they thought that it was something the old folks said that had some meaning that they were too young to understand. One thing that God has blessed each of us with is a mind with a billion or brain cells floating around in there. Let’s not be afraid to aks – ask - J some questions from time to time to see if what is said is really what is said. As leaders it is always our tasks to be clear, lucid, unambiguous, and explanatory. Make sure your people hear, read, and understand! And followers, before you repeat anything, sing anything, or teach anything, make sure you know what’s what.

You’ve been CLUEd

What’s below the surface!

Ok, I don’t have a green thumb! I think it’s sorta brownish in color! LOL! Well, anyway, there’s a tree in my front yard that didn’t grow any leaves this season. Not unusual for this tree because for some reason it doesn’t always have leaves like the other trees around us. Finally my Dear One (that’s my wife) says “you know that tree is dead right!?” I thought, “how can it really be dead when it’s still standing, it just didn’t grow leaves this year, right?” So after closer examination I noticed that although the bark was still covering the tree, it was brittle and easily pulled away. I also notice several, what appeared to be “tracks”, just under the surface of the bark. It looked as if an artist had used precise tools to form an intricate design on the wood to create a piece of fine art. Oh but no! There is no artist here … how about wood-eating-disgusting-ugly bugs! Their MO appears to be to covertly enter the untreated tree, work methodically under the surface (uninterrupted), and (although the outer bark did show signs of sickness) sap all the life out of the tree from within! By the time you notice it (unless you got that green thumb thing goin on) it’s a little too late! The damage is done! The tree is all but ready to be pulled out of the ground and made into a bench! My analogy is not hard to comprehend, but let me be clear … the same thing can happen within our lives! Let’s get a CLUE!

Prov 4:23 says “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”

An untreated heart is set on a path of destruction. When we allow sin and evil into our hearts and leave it unchecked, just like the tree, it will begin to do irreparable damage from within! On the surface you may look well and healthy, but under the surface is where the problem is! Tracks of hatred, envy, strife, jealousy, bitterness, and plan ole sin make their way throughout your whole body! And like the biblical disease Leprosy, by the time it shows up, it’s already been working under the surface of the skin for too long! (Leviticus 14)  There are a few ways in which you the leader, parent, head of Christian organization, etc can “keep” your heart pure. After all, if you the leader work on your heart it will in most cases have positive effect on your followers, members, family, etc.

1.       Watch what goes in. Ps 101:3-5 3 I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar. I hate all crooked dealings; I will have nothing to do with them.  4 I will reject perverse ideas and stay away from every evil.  5 I will not tolerate people who slander their neighbors. I will not endure conceit and pride. (NLT)

2.       Monitor what comes out. Matt 15:19 But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. (KJV)

3.       Welcome necessary changes. Ps 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (KJV)

So many of the “issues” of life that we struggle with can be traced to a lack of “keeping our hearts” with all diligence! Like my tree, our hearts must be treated with a continued dose of spiritual insecticide … and the best I’ve found is none other than God’s word, the Bible!

You’ve been CLUEd!

A Tribute to Mother!

On Mother’s Day we recognize and celebrate the woman we call Mother. It is our privilege to do so. Let us be mindful of the fact that God Almighty, in His boundless wisdom has so declared that the one we call mother should be honored and held in the highest regard and esteem. Thus the bible says “Eph 6:2, 3
"Honor your father and mother"-which is the first commandment with a promise— 3 "that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth." (NIV)

God attached an incidental promise of life and wellness to the commandment to honor her. If we are wise we would listen and conform to the wisdom from above. For the mother is the backbone of the home; the mother is the foundation of the family; the mother is the crowned jewel of our lives. So we pause and in the name of Jesus we say “Thank you”. Thank you for all you have done, are doing, and will do.

Thank you for your undying love and never ending care. We thank you for standing up so that we could sit down … we thank you for holding your tongue so that we could speak our minds … we thank you for sleepless nights so that we could rest … we thank you for being our comfort when we were hurting … we thank you for being our peace in the midst of our confusion … we thank you for your sacrifice in the midst of our situations … Yes, mother, momma, nana, and ma … we thank you and love you with the Love of God! You protected us from the bully’s on the block … you held our hand as we traveled through the traffic … you picked us up when our pipe dreams exploded … you laid our heads across your lap when the death angel approached and took our loved ones. And like Superwoman, you exposed yourself to the kryptonite's of life in order to prevent any harm or danger from defeating us.

Yes, as God is our witness, we must honor her … we must love her … we must admire her … we must pay tribute to her.

And Father God, we thank you for your kind care and consideration for the feeble beings that we are, to not only send your only begotten Son, but to provide us with a bosom of blessedness … one who wipes our earthly tears and mends our earthly bruises … one whose acceptance is endless and whose commitment is continual ... We thank you for Mother!

You've been CLUEd!

Are you growing?

Choices, life is about choices. We choose a certain path which leads to a destination - the one we hoped for if we're lucky. Many of us started on a path to the ever illusive “better life” just over four months ago at the beginning of the year. We pledged to: lose weight,  go back to school, get a better job, leave that draining relationship, become better financial managers, “etc, etc, etc” (as Yul would say - you know that cool bald dude from The King and I). Here’s a question, “How many of you have accomplished or even started to work toward your goals?” I’ll got first … One of my goals was "personal growth." As a minister, I preach constantly on themes concerning spiritual and emotional growth. Even though I preach it, I have to continue to push myself toward my personal goals and excellence, and I often need to stop, look, listen, and learn as well. Note to leaders: Even though others may think you’ve got it all “knowed” up, we know better! There must always be that little voice inside of you that says “keep digging, keep stretching, keep climbing, and keep helping others to do the same.  After all, God didn't just plant us where He did to vegetate!  He wants, desires, and expects us to grow – all of us! Part of my personal growth "track" has been these blog articles. I have dedicated a portion of my week to express myself and challenge others ... to grow. I made a "choice" to pursue what is an important component of my journey.  What of yours? How are you on your journey?  Only you know.

Let’s get a CLUE...                                             

A look at the picture above would lead you to believe that the taller plant was planted before the smaller one. That assumption would be wrong.  They were both planted the same day ... the same time ... by the same person. (One of my sons’ science projects) The difference was light - yes LIGHT.

The taller plant was placed under a constant intense light/lamp during the day. The smaller plant was placed on a window seal on the side of the house where the sun only shines part of the day, and then shines only through the clouds in early spring. The planter of the seeds made a conscious decision or choice to grow them that way.

In life, the planter (God) planted you/us in a certain place for a certain reason, of which He and He alone knows. The one constant about is that it was He did the planting for his glory!  We make a crucial mistake when we compare our personal growth with others. If you’re life (plant) is not as tall as mine or vice versa, that is not a cause for dissention, discouragement, and disappointment. After all, it’s personal. God may have planted you in an area where it takes a little extra diligence on your part to experience the growth you desire. You may be the smaller plant for the moment but know and believe that the growth is not only possible but on its way! You may have to work harder, sleep less, prepare better, or beg God to move you to the other side of the house that gets the constant light - hey it’s worth a shot! LOL

The point to remember is that each of us was planted with care by the best caregiver in the universe, and however we grow; it should be to His glory! He planted us with the intention of us growing. Some grow quicker with great intensity ... some a little slower with less fervor, but the result should be the same - growth. Do what you can do to place yourself on a growing track towards personal growth and excellence (this includes praying for a better situation) and leave the rest to God!

You've been CLUEd

Sometimes you want to get away!

Sometimes you just want to “Get a way … Leave today … yeah-yeah-yeah!” (EW&F reference –LOL). What about “burn-out”? Ever feel like just turning in the keys, not showing up, or just driving away! Yes, we have all been there … most of us anyway. The pressures of life, leadership, and “living” can get the best of any of us. There are times we feel like Elijah when he felt it necessary to get away …

1 Kings 19:3-4

3 And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beer-sheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there.

4 But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.

Elijah’s task as the faithful prophet of God ushered him into some precarious situations. First he was the bearer of bad news to the king (drought – 1 King 17:1). Then his brook dried up (1 Kings 17:17). Next he was personally blamed and called a “trouble-maker” (1 Kings 18:17). Finally he was threatened with bodily harm by the wicked Queen Jezebel! That would be enough for any of us to consider booking a flight on Southwest Airlines! Sometimes even when you have dotted all the required “I’s” and crossed the needed “Ts”, and double-checked your sources, the outcome of your obedience may cause you considerable stress on your mind, body, and spirit. The book of James reminds us that “Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are …” (James 5:17) so don’t get it twisted thinking he was somehow a superior being. No, he got depressed, discouraged, and mentally depleted much like we do at times.  Yet he was still a faithful prophet and servant of God!  Can you relate?

When you lead your family, your church, or your organization, there WILL be times when you are the bearer of bad news; you will suffer personal loss; you will be blamed (for something’s that were not your fault – 1 Kings 18:18), and there may be times when you or your livelihood are threatened! However, don’t allow these things to burden your blessings, trip-up your triumphs, or disturb your duty! One of the things God had to remind Elijah was that God knew where he was and God knew where others like him were!

"God knows where you are ... He knows where others are just like you"

God knew Elijah was in a sad, depressed, and defeated state! He knew where he was! Don’t you think God knows where you are today!? He knows you may have tried and tried but are still misunderstood. He knows that you have devoted yourself to his way of living your life but your family or children don’t seem to get it. He knows that inside you’re crying for help and you could really use a breakthrough! Not only did God know where Elijah was physically, but mentally and spiritually! Never think that God doesn’t see you, because he does! He knows where you are! God also knows where others just like you are! God had to explain to him that there were many, many others (7,000) who had stayed true to their God and His principles! Elijah, you ain’t alone! Today, you may feel that you are the only parent taking a stand to guide your children in the right path. You may feel that you are the only leader who has not sold out your position for a paycheck. You may feel that you are the only Christian in your church! Listen, God has an e-mail (Elijah-mail) with your name on it and in the subject line it reads “Son/Daughter, you are not alone!” In that same e-mail is the same message God had for Elijah: I know where you are and what you’re feeling. Don’t give up! It also says, listen, you’re not all by yourself in this thing! Now get up, get yourself back on track and “Go”! Elijah was nearing the end of his service to God (God lead him to his successor, Elisha) but until you get that message from God, you’ve got to keep on going … dust the dirt off your shoulder and keep moving!

You’re CLUEd!



Angry Birds! Ugh! (How can this Bird can help you!)

Angry Birds! Ugh!  

If you have played it, you know what I’m talking about! LOL … You can get stuck on one level for an hour or more if you’re not careful! There’s this one level – level thirteen that at this writing I have not been able to master. Those blasted pigs! (Check out the game – smile). In the game there are these birds, each with a different “power, skill, or talent” … the little red bird that cruises into the target at one speed only; a dominate yellow bird that flies double time when you tap the screen and with the extra power does more damage; the tiny blue bird that multiplies times three when you tap; a big bird that  boomerangs around and attacks from the rear when you tap the screen; there are others … your task is to figure out what each bird does and when its turn arises, aim it at the right spot to break down the barriers (and get revenge! LOL). Some of it is by sheer chance, but a lot of it is skill and patience on your part.

When you consider the roll you play as a leader, father, mother, etc. it is paramount that you understand that Just as there are many different types of people within your organization, home, or church, there are many leadership types … some effective, some not so. Your task is to … yes you see now … figure it out! God has uniquely gifted each of your members, children, or workers in with the skills, talents, and aptitude to complete whatever job you need to get done. If you employ them wisely (and sometimes luck is involved) the likelihood of the task being completed is much greater which leads to a much healthier environment. In the game, if you continually aim for the same spot with birds of different powers, you may get minor results, but if you take your time and aim at different areas of the structure utilizing the strengths of the birds, it will yield greater results! In your leadership “game” (I know it’s not a game) you must be patient, instructive, and prayerful. You must be willing to accept the talents of your followers, help to improve them if necessary, and alter your leadership style if the need arises. It has been said that “If you’re a hammer, every problem looks like a nail!” Life, like the Angry Bird’s game can be unpredictable, but as a leader you have to be willing to engage and encounter the unpredictable elements with knowledge, wisdom, and the resolve to keep at it until it’s done! I’ll beat level thirteen, I’m sure of it, I may have to leave it alone for a minute and come back to it later, but I will win! It may turn out to be easier than I thought ... and when it is completed, there will be jubilation! So stay focused, have fun, and most of all remember that no matter how difficult the game, problem, or situation looks there is an answer or solution, you may need some help or advice, (that’s for another CLUE) but there is one! Don’t let em’ get the best of you! Angry Birds! Ugh!

You’re CLUEd!

Grace and Mercy!

In rural Virginia, there are long winding roads that seemingly never end. Ones, where if you are lucky enough to get caught behind a lumber truck you just have to wait; and enjoy the scenery while going 25 miles per hour until you are able (and brave enough) to pass! Well, on one occasion while driving down a long Virginia rural road, I witnessed a sight; a sight that I’ve no doubt seen many times before but never took the time to really “see”. Sometimes God can open your eyes to a truth, a very simple truth that previously you have been going too fast to observe. Well, on this particular day while driving with my mind on nothing and nothing on my mind … in particular, I saw this sight: A turtle in the middle of the road. This sight, again, I’ve witnessed before but for some reason my mind began to ponder it. As I swerved so as not to hit the turtle (turtle soup is good I hearJ ) I began to consider one word - “Mercy” … Mercy. Then it hit me! I had mercy on that turtle! So what?! Well I began to think that in the same way I had mercy on that turtle, God has had mercy on me; and every one of us! When you consider that Mr. Turtle (although unbeknownst to him) really had no business being in the middle of the road … in the danger zone! So yes, I had mercy on him as God has on us! Then I began to consider another word – “Grace” … Grace. If that was mercy, what is grace? Why am I entertaining grace? Well, considering that the turtle was still in the middle of the road, (other cars were having mercy as well) … I came to a conclusion that grace then is me pulling over to the side of the road; getting out of my car; walking to the middle of the road; bending down; picking up the turtle; carrying it to the other side of the road where he was heading; and letting it go in safety! Grace! Let me explain. Mercy has been explained by many to mean to not get what we deserve. And grace means to have unmerited favor i.e. to give us what we don’t deserve! Think about it … how many times in your life have you been “caught out there” … jammed up in one of those “situations”! You needed some help … or you would be “done”! Then somehow you were rescued, helped, saved, freed, or exonerated! How did that happen? Someone … God had mercy and grace on you! One of the meanings of favour (grace) in the Old Testament Hebrew is to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to bestow.

(Ps 102:13) Thou shalt arise, and have mercy upon Zion: for the time to favour her, yea, the set time, is come.

Certainly it was God’s kindness (Mercy) and favor (Grace) that saved us from ourselves and helped us to get to a point of safety! As I drove away that day, all I could muster to say was Thank you God for your grace and mercy … on a turtle like me!

You’ve been CLUEd!

Stay Focused!

 Stay focused! I was in New York City last week and the above photo was taken by my cool phone! J A closer look reveals that there are a number of things happening all at once. People moving, lights flashing, advertisements galore, etc. virtually every inch of occupied space is being utilized. In a place like that it’s hard to focus on one thing, when literally everything is shouting “Hey you look over here!”  It’s hard to ignore anything and impossible to see everything. But yet I was able to navigate my way to my intended destination (the candy store! Lol) In order to navigate anywhere you must first know where you want to go! You must first formulate in your mind and then be willing to negotiate the terms that will allow you get there. In this case, I knew where I wanted to go and if I was going to be successful I had to be willing to go around, through, and even over whatever obstacles or distractions that placed themselves in my range of vision. In other words I had to first focus on one intended goal, look around and see how to get there, and then be brave enough to start out in that direction.

As leaders, there are often many obstacles and other attention-getting factors that place themselves in our range of vision. And while we try to address each factor before us, it becomes increasingly difficult without focus, to navigate around, through, and over them in order to arrive at the proper destination. Take for example a disgruntled, church member, family member, co-worker, etc. Often times you will be bombarded with their issue of the day or hour, and at the same time have other issues or even your own issues to deal and contend with! Here is where focus comes in to play. A leader (or anyone) who is unable to focus his/her attention on what is needful or where they are trying to go will also be found lacking. Jesus at a most critical time during his passion was heard to admonish his three apostles to stay awake and be watchful or they would fall into temptation. (Matthew 26) He told them what their goal was (resist the temptation of the devil) and also how to navigate around it (staying focused/alert). In dealing with the disgruntled “whomever”, it is imperative that you keep your focus on the intended destination, which is a helpful and peaceful resolution. There may be other sights and sounds that seek to gain your attention often coming from the individual, but a focused eye/mind is Key lest you get pulled in an all together direction (debating, taking a defensive posture, blaming, etc). For example, pain, hurt, and frustration can cause someone to act out in a seemingly threatening or unhealthy way.  When you, with wisdom and focus, are confronted with sour behaviors and seemingly trite dispositions, you are able to ignore the negative and strive for the positive. Being focused does not necessarily mean having tunnel vision, but it means having a wide-enough peripheral that you are able to negotiate the proper move at the proper time. (1 Corinthians 16:13) You may see all those sights and sounds, but they don’t affect you because you know your intended destination!

While on my way to the candy store (Hershey’s) J , I passed a number of distracting people, places, and things … but I knew what I wanted, knew where it was, and successfully navigated my way there and back … a choice I made! Stay focused … it is a choice!

Phil 3:13 “No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead …” NLT

You’re CLUEd!

The You're a Star!

“The only girl in the world" (Got your attention huh?!)
I’m not promoting Rihanna - lol.  Really, as I considering a topic this week the song came on the radio - yes, I've got teens that have "jacked" car my radio! I monitor it though :)  Anyway ... it’s a great concept and reality. Ladies, you know it ... men, we better get it! However, in the world of leadership, the principle is paramount.  The people you lead have to know that they matter. What they do, what they accomplish, how they feel, how much they have achieved, etc. This of course has to be genuinely felt. If it’s not they WILL KNOW … and LET YOU KNOW! The important thing is that you understand everyone’s need for validation, fairness, guidance and integrity. The wise leader will take these notions to heart. Solomon says in the book of Proverbs 11:3 “The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.” He says in Proverbs 18:13 "He who answers before listening — that is his folly and his shame."  Also in Proverbs 28:21 “To have respect of persons is not good …” Again in Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." Lastly he says in Proverbs 16:23 “A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction.”  These and many, many more speak to the wisdom a leader so desperately needs. A leader (in the home, church, or organization) must among other things be a disseminator of knowledge i.e. give people what they need to succeed. In doing this you make them feel that they matter. When people know without a doubt that they matter – and not just lip service – they will begin to live out their purpose for being in the group! In the home and church, where young people are concerned; if your only dealings with them are to constantly shine a negative light on their doings, they will cower, shrink, and disappear. Part of making sure people matter is simply telling them! Withholding your praise will only make matters worse. Let people hear from you that they matter … that you care what happens in their lives … that you are excited about their progress and achievements. When they do a good thing, let them know (even if it’s half way right). When Peter expressed his personal growth in his proclamation that Jesus was the “Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matt. 16), Jesus was excited that Peter opened his mind to the Father above and received the truth of who He was. He was heard to say “Blessed are you!” I’m sure Peter felt pretty good at that moment. (Wouldn’t you?) John C. Maxwell calls this “The Law of Connection”. You have to connect with people before you can lead, confront, discipline, or challenge them. People will gladly spend and be spent with a group where they know they are appreciated. If the connection is not there, you will fail every time and instead of your follower, child, spouse, group, etc knowing for sure that they matter, the suspense may drive them wild and they will begin to rebel, complain, or worse, “hit the road”. If God has placed you in a leadership function, always to “Make them feel, like they’re the only ones in the world”! So, I’ll give it to the pop star this time, she made me think!

Now you have the CLUE!

Thank God for the Pressure?!

Thank God For The Pressure! (2 Corinthians 1:1-11)

This text is about pressure … but also about Hope. It is also about Community and even Leadership.

The apostle refers to a time when he was under enormous strain, stress, and intense pressure. His human capacity to endure was at its limit. The pressure points were swelling and the proverbial walls were caving in. Among the thoughts in Paul’ mind was to prove and settle the fact that his ministry was indeed of God unto whom he was called to be an apostle for. Some of the very folk he loved were getting his service to God “twisted.”

The only thing clear to him was death. Trouble was at his doorstep … Tribulations were awaiting him … Trials were after him … and Triumph was nowhere to be found.

Perhaps you have been there? Pressure! Today’s world is full of pressure. Pressure to win (at all costs) … pressure to perform, achieve, and just to get by. No sector of society is immune to it. Preacher and President … congressmen and church men … first lady and bag lady … We all feel its effects. Emotionally and financially we are drained … Spiritually we are spent … Physically we are broke-down. The question is not how to avoid it, but how to deal with it. Running is not the answer. Ignoring it is not the answer. Avoiding it will only make it worse. What should a person in today’s world do? I need to remind you that many a person's mettle was forged in the battle to overcome and deal with the pressures of life. Someone has said “If you don't go through a test, you have no test-i-mony.”

So, how shall we deal with the pressure-cookers of life? While we may never be faced with the pressures Paul felt and underwent, we all have pressure points – pressure that makes us want to scream! Yes, I almost screamed when I saw those gas prices the other day! J

-          Mornings we want to run away

-          Afternoons we wish we could hide

-          Nights we wish could go on forever

-          Days we don’t feel like going on

-          Times we just want to quit

But rather than run, hide, or quit … I suggest another option. Use the pressure points of life to God’s glory!

A close look at the text reveals at least five (5) things pressure can do for us.

1. Pressure can lead us to God’s comfort- God of all comfort = paraklesis – parakeleo = call or come to our side.  Like the comforter i.e. Holy Spirit  ... IOW God is near! How near? Very near – closer than close – easier than using a cell phone, quicker than using e-mail … God is so close – God is there when you need him! Just ask Martha and Mary – (John 11) … Lazarus was sick, Jesus was away, they found him! He is always close by – Psalms 121 … “I will lift up my eyes unto the hills …” He is there when you need him – whatever you are facing, whatever you are up against, whatever you are afraid of, etc

2. Pressure can equip us to comfort others God comforts us  “in” all our tribultation so that we can help others! God is with you while going through your test and when he delivers you you must help others ... get it? When God helps you through something he is positioning you to help someone else … its like a cycle …- When you go through your pain of sickness, death of loved ones, difficulties, etc. and God’s helping Spirit (Comforter) is with you and keeps you from losing it; you in turn help someone else who might be stuck and can’t get out …
3. Pressure can produce patient endurance - Hope
   The book of James (1:3) says the trying of your faith worketh patience
   This speaks of “hope” i.e. cheerful or hopeful endurance ... Back in John 11, Jesus said "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God" ...  God is in the mix, don't worry!
   We read in Hebrews 12:2 … Jesus for the joy endured the cross, despising the shame, etc

- Resurrection comes only after the cross!

4. Pressure can teach us to rely on God- Trust in God, not in self, other men, situation, etc. but trust in God even when things look their worst … when you are at a Dead end – when you must take an unfamiliar Detour – when you are at a Dry place … Trust God! The Children of Israel had to learn to trust God’s leading …When there was no food, he fed the, when there was no water, he gave them water from a rock … he protected them, he guided them, he kept them! So we rely on Him today. Why? If he can raise the dead, feed a nation of people, walk on water, etc.. he can bring life to your issues … financially, health, relationship, housing, educational

5. – Pressure can generate prayerful thanksgiving among believers  - Community  Helping by praying for each other … Paul says – “Because I was under pressure and you prayed for me and God delivered me –the gift – they can also rejoice and give God the glory!” When we use those words "I'm praying for you", let's mean it and see what God does! You are also blessed by asking God to bless others who are in the pressure cooker!

As a fellow minister friend of mine says "Let's be HopeDealers!" 

Hope can build us a bridge from despair to deliverance

Hope can lead us from grief to grace

Hope can move us from bitterness to blessing

Hope can lift us from tragedy to triumph

Hope can push us from suicide to salvation

 

We sing the song sometimes: “My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus’ blood and righteousness … On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.”

You've Got the CLUE!

So you've got talent?

This morning during the pre-dawn, hours I was watching an old episode of “I Love Lucy” – the black & white ones! This episode like so many others centered on Lucy’s insatiable desire to perform in one of Ricky’s musicals. There seemed to be no length that she wouldn’t go to make sure she was available to be a part of the show! Ricky, knowing that his lovely wife wasn’t suited for the spotlight (so he thought), would still devise or rework a scene in the show that would feature Lucy in a “minor” role. Those minor role’s would become “major” roles once Lucy got involved … she would see to that! What a comedienne!

As I laughed to myself (remember it’s the pre-dawn hour), it occurred to me that in the workplace, church, religious organization or the home, there always seems to be a “Lucy” trying to get the spotlight. Many times they are honest people who just simply want an opportunity to experience the “limelight” for a moment and then they will be fine and will allow things to continue as they were. Kind of like little Johnny wanting to sing for his aunts & uncles at Thanksgiving just to get a rise out of them for a moment and after the attention he’s fine. Well what do you do when you know someone is not suited for the stage, but insists to you and everyone else who will listen that they are? Well for starters it’s a good idea to see if they are serious in their request. Do they have a true passion for the work?! Then, which is often the case, training or mentoring is in order. In the bible the older Apostle Paul trained and mentored the younger minster Timothy. I don’t think Timothy was vying for attention (especially since some of Paul’s words to him may suggest that he was timid) but nonetheless he started out ill-equipped for the job i.e. he was young, inexperienced, at a large church, and compared to Paul, he was a complete novice!

Yet the apostle spent his time and attention on him to assure him that although he may not be ready for center-stage at the moment, if he followed his lead, he would one day be an equipped and empowered minster! We get a glimpse of this in 1 Timothy 4:12-14 “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Do not neglect the gift that is in you …” (NKJV). That may very well be what Lucy needed! Maybe if Ricky recognized that she was talented and just needed to be directed (or re-directed) he would’ve experienced less of her shenanigans and would have welcomed her as a valued member of his team. That’s a function of leadership! John C. Maxwell writes “God doesn’t necessarily choose leaders based on their natural talent or ability. Neither does He always choose them based on their age and experience. God chooses leaders based on their availability not their ability …” (The Maxwell Leadership Bible).  Although Lucy may not have been really talented, she was always there and ready!

In your home, job, or church, if you are leader you must keep your eyes and ears open for those looking for opportunities to shine. Sometimes they will purposely jump in your eyesight or scream in your ears, but your job is to evaluate the desire or request and determine with God’s help, where and when they can be utilized to share their gifts and talents. It is also your job to refer “Lucy’s” to a sideline position if that is necessary! “Lucy, you’ve got some splaining to do!”

Now you have the CLUE!

Winter Workshop. A brief summary.

“Whatever Happened to the Family? Where Are the Leaders?” This was the theme of our annual Winter Workshop and Revival Meeting. It is always refreshing to begin each year with intelligent and stimulating discussion designed to affect change in the hearts and minds of believers. In previous years we have hosted seminars dealing with finances, grief & depression, relationship issues, evangelism, and aging to name a few. This year we invited one of the nation’s foremost scholars and historians with an expertise in church leadership and administration as well as the dynamic of the African American family. Dr. Jefferson R. Caruthers, the evangelist of the Carver Road Church of Christ in Winston-Salem, NC, addressed the above mentioned topics with the professionalism, adeptness, and dedication to the “text” as he has been noted for in the churches of Christ for many years. He presents a thorough and keen insight into many of the historical and practical issues that we have come to be familiar with in our fellowship. One such issue is “Faith after 18 years” i.e. how & why many in our churches make a mass exodus from the church after they reach the age of 18. In speaking with Dr. Caruthers it became clear to me that many of us have been guilty of spiritual sabotage by saying things like “As long as you are in my house you will do as I say” or “Until your 18^th birthday you are my responsibility and then you can do what you want”! Both of those statements as well as others have been used in the family context for many years among many in our number. However, he brought out the fact (biblically) that our faith should be passed down from generation to generation whether the child is 18, 48 or 108! In his piece on administration and leadership, he dealt with the leaders in the bible from a biblical historical context i.e. how God prepares his leaders for the functions they undertake. He also dealt with many of the historical positions “brethren” have taken on a leaders qualifications. In his presentations, which are immersed in scripture, he brings out the “meat” of the passage and allows those in attendance to arrive at the biblical and logical conclusion based on the present and surrounding context staying true to the un-prejudicial and original meaning. My congregation as well as many others in our fellowship must come to grips individually with the many issues of our day, and in doing so must remain faithful to the written word of God. Our lives at the “Well” have been richly blessed! Our families are stronger; our leaders (in the home and church) have been strengthened and challenged as well.

You have the CLUE!

LOOK BEHIND YOU ...

One of my favorite sayings and mantra’s of life is “The final test of leadership is whether or not anyone is following”. Another way to say it is, “If you are leading and no one is following, you are just taking a walk”. As a leader, especially in the religious context, followers mean a lot; a whole lot. Not for the reason you may first think, however. Certainly as a leader you want to “lead”. But more importantly those behind you must be learning, and growing into leaders themselves. A major part of a leader’s job is to make other leaders.

Kenneth O. Gangel writes:

            “Church leaders need to produce leaders who will reproduce leaders precisely as it is done in the family – through experience, instruction, and modeling. The true leader      practices all of them all the time. The leadership process remains at heart a discipling   process with modeling the first indispensible part of the task.” Feeding and Leading.

Think of your ministry, life, work, or organization for a minute … how well are you preparing your followers to lead? As a father my primary job is to prepare my young sons for the experience of manhood. My daily “up-close-and-personal” life must radiate confidence, maturity, compassion and competence … all vital necessities of leadership and must have’s for men and women today.  Compassion may seem like the odd-man-out, but leadership without the ability to feel for and with people is barbarism! People are attracted to you based on what they see “in” you, not by what they see “on” you. That leads to my main CLUE …

1 Sam 22:1-2 says … “All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their leader. About four hundred men were with him.” NIV

David endeared himself tremendously with not only his father’s household, but all of those who were in particular straits themselves.

The text says that among the people, certain sorts were attracted to David.

   (a) The Distressed - 22:2a "everyone who was in distress” (Lit. a narrow place; confinement)

   (b) The Debtors - 22:2b "everyone who was in debt" (you know what debt is - lol)

   (c) The Discontented - 22:2c "everyone who was discontented (Lit. Bitter about life)

These were people on the run, in trouble, and in need of serious help. They knew that their situation was bad and but would get worse if David wasn’t there. David had made a connection with the people. God had blessed him and the people had an affinity with him. We read in

1 Sam. 18:16 (v.5) that “all Israel and Judah loved David, because he went out and came in before them.”

This means that he was a man of the people. He walked with them, he talked with them … he shared in their pains and successes … he was with them on the battlefield … he was available; he was touchable; he was lovable … the people knew if anybody cared for them David did … if anyone could understand them David could … if anyone could help them David was certainly the one!

How well do you identify with those you lead or work with? Would your presence be missed if you were to leave? I’m not speaking of a self-serving, narcissistic type of environment where you have made yourself the center of everything … but would there be a general consensus that things are better when you are there because you have “connected or bonded” with others?  they gladly give up the comfort and stability of their surroundings to be where you are? This at the outset seems strange to think about, but think again of your family and what you provide for them: food, shelter, security, love, etc. Well as a leader you have been placed there to be a provider … a giver … a supplier … a FEEDER!  It’s only when people grasp a deep sense of care and concern that they will long to be where you are. They will come HUNGRY! Competence & courage will take you a long way … but the real test of your leadership is if anyone is actually following your lead! A person with no compassion for the plight of others will soon find that no one behind his back has his back! For David this was a critical reason for his success with people. So much so that he “became their leader” i.e. the people made him their leader.  Look behind you. Anybody there?

You have the CLUE!